Assembly polls crucial for Bihar's future: PM Modi

Sitamarhi (Bihar): Reiterating his 'tantra-mantra' jibe directed at Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that the assembly polls was crucial this time as it would decide the future of Bihar's development.

"This is not just an election of which political party must come to power. It is an election for the future of Bihar's development," he said while addressing a rally here a day before the third phase of the Bihar Assembly polls.

"You need to decide whether you want 'tatra-mantra' (magic spells) to pave the path to development or 'loktantra' (democracy)," he added.

Prime Minister Modi also reached out to the Dalit community by calling Valmiki Jayanti a fortunate day for addressing a rally. "Today is a fortunate day. I wish Lord Valmiki blesses me to serve each person and mother Sita protects us and blesses us so that I never let anything come in the way of my service to you," he said.

Highlighting his commitment towards serving the people of the nation, Prime Minister Modi cited that he has not taken even one day off in his service of 16 months.

"I have not come to power to enjoy the power of my position. It has been nearly 16 months, and I have not taken even a single day off," he added.